Abstract:

The objective of this exploratory study was to quantify the relationship between relationship factors and lifestyle choice. Specifically, relationship satisfaction, constructive communication, closeness/caregiving, openness of communication and intrusiveness were examined for their ability, if any, to predict lifestyle choice. Lifestyle choice was defined as attitudes and behaviors along a monogamy-polyamory continuum. Participants included 25 female and 16 male internet users between the ages of 18 and 58. Multiple regression analysis showed that neither lifestyle-related attitudes nor behaviors were significantly predicted by the five relationship factors. Further analysis found same-sex attraction to be significantly associated with attitude and behavior. Not surprisingly, monogamous and polyamorous respondents differed significantly on attitudes about polyamory. Hopefully, this study will restimulate and contribute to an area that is greatly lacking in research. Additionally, it is hoped that the findings in this study will help guide therapeutic interventions.